Road Occupied In Huasco Valley To Protest Mining Project Pascua Lama

Road occupied in Huasco Valley to protest mining project Pascua Lama

by Maria Jose Martinez

Communications: Citizens Anti Pascua Lama Movement, Chile

23rd January 2007

Neighbors, residents and ecologists in resistance against the mining project Pascua Lama occupied the crossroads between Conay and Chollay beginning January 22, 2007. This is the first of many actions and initiatives within the "Call of Water" actions carried out this weekend in Conay.

This action was carried out to call attention and a permanent alert regarding the seven mining projects which the State has given concessions to in the area, and specifically to show the rejection of the binational mining project Pascua Lama.

In addition to the nonviolent blockade of the road, this action shows opposition to the lack of information shared with residents regarding these issues.

These actions are essential because personnel of Barrick Gold continue to have free access throughout the area of operations despite the fact that their works should be paralySed due to the ongoing legal challenges. The community has made a call for the defense of land, water and life.